LAFAYETTE, LA (KPEL News) – A Lafayette Parish student-athlete training abroad at the International Soccer Academy is getting a chance to turn professional after being contacted to participate in a trial with Cadiz CF.
DTSMA fourth-year student Drew Long traveled to Spain this year to attend La Liga's Cadiz CF Academy as part of the club's partnership with the International Soccer Academy. Although he had to miss the second half of his senior year, he had the opportunity to practice and play under professional guidance in Cadiz, Spain.
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After his call-up to the trials was announced, Long told KPEL News he was “very excited to go practice with higher competition.” “I’m so glad Coach Pablo gave me the opportunity to prove myself because I know I can compete at that level and above.”
The International Soccer Academy posted the news about Long's new opportunity on its social media pages, including Instagram.
Congratulations to Andrew Long who has been called up for trials with the Cadiz CF C team, a professional men's team. This is a photo from yesterday's training. Cadiz CF C competes in his PRIMERA ANDALUZA senior division.
Prior to joining Spain's Cadiz CF unified team in January of this year, Drew played for the Cajun Rush.
Everyone at the International Soccer Academy wishes Andrew all the best in his future endeavors.
A student at David Thibodeau STEM Magnet Academy in Lafayette since middle school, Long is ready to prove his worth.
“I have only attended one training session and have a broken toe, but I am confident that I can prove myself to the coaches, get some recognition and hopefully get a contract,” he said. Told. “The only big drawback is that I don't fully understand Spanish yet, so the language barrier is huge.”
Despite the language barrier, those back home know he's more than capable, including DTSMA high school soccer coach Derek Menard.
”“Drew went to Spain with the attitude that he was here to work and prove himself,” Menard said, adding, “It was a testament to his talent and work ethic that he was able to go to trial. That's proof,” he said. He has a huge fan club in Lafayette who understand his abilities and support him every step of the way. ”
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Gallery credit: Nick Northern
